Sporty hatches have plenty of sizzle

Aussies buy small hatchbacks in droves. They represent one of the most popular new car categories. While their appeal is largely based on value and low running costs, few hatch line-ups are complete without a range-topping sporty model with zippy performance and premium extras.

“Warm” hatches sit a rung below sizzling hot hatch heroes like the Volkswagen Golf R and Ford Focus RS, and the best of these have broad appeal thanks to a Goldilocks mix of price, performance, equipment and athletic good looks.

Some – such as the Focus ST and Renault Megane GT – are very warm indeed, while other more affordable options such as the Golf 110TSI, Holden Astra RS-V and all-new Hyundai i30 SR Premium offer enough turbocharged grunt to bring a smile to a driver’s face.